St Augustine’s Catholic Primary School, located on Heathcote Street in Radford, Coventry, has recently undergone an inspection on July 3 and 4, 2023, and continues to be recognized as a good school. This report highlights the school’s strengths, areas for improvement, and the overall experience of attending this vibrant educational institution.
At St Augustine’s, the atmosphere is characterized by friendliness and inclusivity. The school prides itself on welcoming pupils from diverse backgrounds and faiths, ensuring that every child feels valued and supported. Leaders, staff, governors, and members of the multi-academy company are dedicated to providing the best possible education for every pupil. The positive feedback from students indicates that they enjoy their time at school, often citing the kindness of their teachers as a key highlight of their experience.
The school’s staff are well-acquainted with the pupils and their families, creating a nurturing environment where children can express their concerns. Pupils exhibit commendable behavior in lessons and demonstrate a strong sense of community, looking out for one another during playtime. The school encourages a culture of respect and cooperation, which is evident in the way pupils of all ages interact harmoniously in the playground.
St Augustine’s offers a range of enriching experiences that enhance the learning journey. Recent trips, such as the Year 6 visit to the old Coventry Cathedral, provide pupils with a deeper understanding of historical events like the Coventry Blitz. Younger students also engage with their local community, exploring their surroundings to learn more about their heritage.
Pupils are encouraged to take on various roles within the school, such as joining the eco or liturgy teams, or being elected as school councillors. This involvement fosters a sense of responsibility and leadership among students.
The school’s leadership recognizes the critical importance of reading in a child’s education. Initiatives like the Christmas ‘book calendar’ and author visits inspire a love for literature among pupils. However, the inspection noted some inconsistencies in the delivery of the phonics program, which can slow down the reading fluency of some pupils. Addressing these inconsistencies will be crucial for enhancing reading outcomes.
St Augustine’s has developed an ambitious curriculum that spans from the early years to Year 6. Leaders have carefully identified key knowledge areas, including local history, which is integrated into lessons through visits to sites like the nearby Roman fort. Despite these strengths, the inspection highlighted that in some subjects, the implementation of the curriculum is not yet consistent. This inconsistency can lead to gaps in pupils’ understanding, indicating a need for ongoing curriculum improvements and checks.
The school is proactive in identifying and supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Tailored support ensures that these pupils can engage with the same curriculum as their peers, allowing them to make good progress in their learning.
St Augustine’s fosters cultural awareness through various initiatives, such as learning about significant figures from the Windrush generation. Pupils also engage in community service, exemplified by the eco-group’s participation in local litter-picking events. These experiences prepare students for life in modern Britain, instilling values of respect and responsibility.
In conclusion, St Augustine’s Catholic Primary School stands out as a nurturing and inclusive environment where pupils thrive academically and socially. While the school has many strengths, including a supportive staff, a rich curriculum, and a commitment to community engagement, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the consistency of phonics instruction and curriculum implementation. With continued focus on these areas, St Augustine’s is well-positioned to enhance its educational offerings and maintain its status as a good school in Coventry.
For more information about St Augustine’s Catholic Primary School, visit their website at www.sta.hccmac.co.uk.
